Tag Archives: OC Eats

Ever since Casey came into my life, essentially everything revolves around the little man. Since he’s little, it’s hard to leave him unsupervised at home for a long period of time, so I try to schedule things to the best of my abilities. I haven’t been able to eat out too much lately (which I’m sure my wallet is happy about), but it changed when I found out that Rutabegorz in Orange is dog-friendly! The only other restaurant that Casey had been with us to before was Lazy Dog, and besides barking at one dog, he was an absolute angel. We’re trying really hard to train Casey to behave himself with other humans and dogs, and socializing him at a young age seems to be putting us on the right track.

I decided to meet J for lunch at Ruta’s, and of course Casey was invited! I’ve been to other Ruta’s, but never to the Orange location. It’s located right across from Chapman University, but since we had visited at noon before school was back in session, it was quiet.

We had the patio to ourselves for most of lunch, and it was perfect for people watching. I loved the relaxed atmosphere; in fact, it was next to a handicraft store that I’ll have to stop by next time. I don’t spend nearly enough time in local cafes, so it was a great change of pace.

It was an absolute perfect day to sit outside, soak up some sun, and catch up with J, all with Casey by our sides. It was going to be a long day, so I ordered an iced vanilla latte to start out with. It wasn’t the best I’ve ever had, so I’d probably try something else on the menu the next time around.

Ruta’s definitely has one of the biggest menus I’ve ever seen; everything from salads to wraps to sandwiches to soups. There are a ton of vegetarian options, which make it a solid option that will make everyone happy. I’ve heard people complain about the menu being too big, but I consider extra choices to be a good thing!

Ruta’s always has a great deal for an appetizer for a dollar or less; I’ve had various types of hummus, spreads, and chutneys that I normally wouldn’t have ordered if it wasn’t for the obscenely great price. This months’ was a chiptole dip with chips. It was creamy with just the right amount of kick. I wish they’d jar these monthly specials up to take home!

The great thing about Ruta’s is that the food comes out quick. Probably quicker than any restaurant I’ve ever been to, actually. Our waitress was really sweet and even gave in to Casey’s pleading for a ear scratch. I mean, how could you not love this face though?

I ordered the garlic chicken salad, which has been my go-to meal for a year. It has garlic chicken, tomatoes, walnuts, avocado, cucumber, crunchy wonton sticks, and a side of balsamic vinaigrette. In case you haven’t heard, Ruta’s salads are huge! They’re definitely share-worthy, I always order the full size so that I can take the extras home for dinner.

J ordered the chicken enchiladas. I know I said I order the same thing every time, but if I had to order something else off the extensive menu, it’d be the enchiladas. They come smothered in cheese, which, in case you didn’t know, is one of my favorite foods. It’s his go-to meal, and I’m lucky he let’s me snag a few bites here and there. He ended up pouring the remaining chipotle sauce on the enchiladas, which took it to the next level. So. Good.

We were both stuffed by the end of lunch. Casey was very well-behaved, which means he can certainly join us next time around! I forgot to ask if they had any food items for dogs on the menu (Lazy Dog brings out chicken and rice for about $5), but I’ll have to ask next time. It wouldn’t be fair for Casey to miss out on the great food at Ruta’s again, now would it? Oh, and I couldn’t leave you without one more good picture of this babe…We can’t wait to go back!